Distribution Manager
Decides when, where and how a product is distributed, using software to forecast distribution chains.
Overview
Distribution Manager will determine when, where and how a product is distributed. They use information systems and software to forecast distribution chains, and work on designing an effective program implementation.
Where they work
- Production units
- Private and Public production companies
- E-commerce companies
- Courier companies
- Cottage based industries
- Shipping companies
- Military and so on
Work environment
The work timings are typically 5 to 6 days a week for 8 to 9 hours per day. Shift system is applicable.
Opportunities for work exist for differently abled in this field.
Skills and interests
This career might suit you if…
- You like to keep your things organised
- You pay attention to details while working
- You are comfortable communicating with others
- You like to lead
Eligibility and education roadmap
Please check the duration of the course during enrolment.
Route 1
- 1Complete 10+2 in any stream (preferably commerce)
- 2Complete Bachelor's degree (BBA/BBM) in Business Administration/business management
Alternative route 2
- 1Complete Bachelor's degree and follow it up with Master's (MBA) in the same discipline
Forms, exams and applications
Exam names above are as printed in the source card. Application windows, eligibility and syllabi change — always check the official notification for current dates.
Where to apply
The course is offered by the Department of Management. This list of institutes is indicative only.
Government institutes
- Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College, New Delhi
- University of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir
- Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat
- Indian Institute of Management, Rohtak, Haryana
- Doon University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand
- Department of Management Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, Maharashtra
- Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
Private institutes
Please check if the institute is affiliated and accredited before applying.
- University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, Uttarakhand
- Raisoni Group of Institutions, Nagpur, Maharashtra
- SunRise University, Alwar, Rajasthan
- Army Institute of Management and Technology, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh
- Sharanabasava University, Gulbarga, Karnataka
- Arcade Business College, Patna, Bihar
- Oxbridge Business School, Bengaluru, Karnataka
- Jyoti Nivas College, Bengaluru, Karnataka
- National Institute of Business Excellence, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Distance learning
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), New Delhi
These institute lists are indicative examples from the source card, not a ranked or complete directory. Always verify accreditation on the institute's official website.
Career outcomes
Growth path
- 1Stores Distributor
- 2Process Supervisor
- 3Warehouse Supervisor
- 4Distribution Manager
Expected income
₹21,000 – ₹1,67,000 per month
These figures are indicative and subject to change.
SourceRelated careers to explore
Logistics Manager
Coordinates the storage, transportation and delivery of finished goods so that stock is maintained and moves efficiently.
Supply Chain Manager
In charge of every stage of an organisation's supply chain, from purchasing raw materials to production and storage.
Student action plan
What you can do this month
- Read this whole roadmap and note any subjects, exams or institutes you don't recognise yet.
- Talk to a teacher or school counsellor about how your current subjects connect to Commerce, Any Stream.
- Look for a school club, competition or online course related to leading.
- Shortlist 2–3 institutes from the list above and check their official website for current admission details.
- Save this career and compare it with 1–2 others you're considering.
Example from the field
Alka Luthra — Has been working as a Global Manager, Segment (Oral Care) & Manager, Distribution (North America) at Lubrizol for 9 years. She has an M.Pharm. in Pharmaceutics after which she completed a Diploma in Marketing Management from SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS). Lubrizol is part of the Chemicals & Related Products industry, and located in Ohio, United States.
SourceThis profile is shared for training/educational purposes only, as printed in the source card.
Sources and update notice
- Career card source: Exploring Career Paths with Career Cards, Volume 2, printed page 719 (NCERT / UNICEF India / PSSCIVE Bhopal, First Edition, April 2025).
- Income source: https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/distribution-manager-salary
- Last reviewed on this site: 2026-08-21
The University of Petroleum and Energy Studies is a private university but is printed under government institutes; it is listed under private here. This card shares its institute lists with the Inventory Manager and Purchasing and Materials Manager cards.
Eligibility, fees, exam patterns and admissions change often. Always verify current details on official institute, exam-body or government websites before making decisions.